Dear Friends,
Since this month’s issue is all about Brain Health, I thought it only fitting that my husband and I begin October with a little reset of our own—a week of rest, relaxation, reflection and relationship in beautiful Barbados. This eastern Caribbean Island, with its old-world charm, colorful culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, has been the perfect backdrop for slowing down, soaking up sunshine, and remembering the value of stepping away from the daily grind.
Of course, not everyone can fly to a tropical island to recharge (I certainly can’t most of the time), which is why I remind myself often that cultivating brain health is less about geography and more about intentional practice. This month’s Healing Ways column highlights the power of gently reprogramming our overstimulated nervous systems. When we calm stress and create space for rest, our bodies respond with deeper sleep, improved nutrient absorption, cellular repair and more balanced moods. That’s a prescription I’d love to write for myself every week.
Our feature story explores what really shapes brain health—things like stress, hormones, neurotransmitters, growth factors, and even the way we learn and age. These influences can reshape the very structure of our brains. The most exciting part? Our brains are capable of neurogenesis—the formation of brand-new neurons, even in adulthood. For decades, scientists believed new brain cells stopped forming after childhood, but we now know the brain continues to renew and adapt throughout life.
So why does this matter? Neurogenesis is tied to learning and memory, mood regulation, and even brain repair. And the best part—we have a say in supporting it.
So, here’s what I do to positively influence my own neurogenesis—
1. Exercise (all forms—aerobic, muscular strength and HIIT).
2. Enrich my environment through mind-body practices (like prayer), mental stimulation, learning and exploration.
3. Stay socially connected (in person, whenever possible).
4. Prioritizing sleep (no problem for me!).
5. Avoid junk and nourish my body with fish, lean poultry, vegetables, nuts, berries, whole grains, legumes and high-quality olive oil.
These simple, intentional choices are my way of investing in long-term brain health. I’d love to hear what you’re doing to keep your brain sharp, calm and resilient. Share your thoughts with me at Facebook.com/NaturalAwakeningsMag—because when we learn from each other, we all grow.
With gratitude,
Michelle Smith
Publisher, Natural Awakenings Gulf Coast
